Poonjeri Inscriptions: A Forgotten Tribute to Pallava Sculptors

Mamallapuram, the crown jewel of Pallava architecture, is celebrated for its breathtaking monuments—the Shore Temple, the Five Rathas, the Great Penance, and various other magnificent rock-cut caves adorned with intricate sculptures. While these architectural wonders are widely praised, the master sculptors who crafted them remain largely unknown to the public. However, their names are not lost to history; they are inscribed on boulders in Poonjeri, a lesser-known site located just 2.9 kilometers from Mallai.

In a site what locals used to call “Nondi Veerappan Thotti,” in Poonjeri,  holds an inscription in Tamil and Grantha script, dating back to the late 7th century CE. These inscriptions, documented in the South Indian Inscriptions (SII) Volume XII, AR Nos. 105-107 of 1932-33, offer a rare glimpse into the identities of seven sculptors who played a crucial role in shaping Mamallapuram's legacy. The inscription reads:

Ke(va)da Peruntaccan

Gunamallah

Payyamilippan

Catamukkiyan

Kaliya(ni)

Namah Tiruverriyur A(bha)jar

Kollan (S)emagan

In Tamil, ‘Taccan’ refers to a sculptor, while ‘Peruntaccan’ denotes the chief sculptor, indicating the high status of these artisans. Their names being etched into stone suggests that they either worked or resided in this region. 

The Neglected State of Poonjeri Inscriptions

While royal inscriptions are common in heritage sites, it is exceedingly rare to find records acknowledging the sculptors who built them. Poonjeri is one such invaluable site, yet it lies in a state of neglect. The road expansion on the East Coast Road (ECR) has left these inscriptions almost forgotten. Today, the stone slabs rest beside the road’s barricade, obscured by overgrown shrubs and creepers, with no signboards or protective measures to highlight their historical significance.

With rapid urban development in the area, there is an urgent need to protect this site. At the very least, a signboard should be installed to educate locals and visitors about the significance of these inscriptions. Unlike many other historical records controlled by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), this site remains outside their jurisdiction, making preservation efforts even more challenging.

A Call for Conservation

The Poonjeri inscriptions serve as a rare testament to the anonymous sculptors who immortalized Pallava artistry in stone. If left unattended, these invaluable records may be lost forever. Recognizing and preserving this site is not just about safeguarding history—it is about honoring the artisans whose hands carved the timeless marvels of Mamallapuram.

Happy travelling.